News Summary

In an unexpected decision, Pleasure Ridge Park High School in Louisville, KY, has parted ways with head football coach Brandon Dunn after one season. The Panthers finished with a disappointing record of 2-9 overall and 0-8 in their class. Athletic Director Nick Waddell communicated the decision in a letter to parents, emphasizing the school’s commitment to student-athlete development. Interim Coach Kenny Walker will lead the team as they prepare for the upcoming season, which will feature new facilities and a fresh outlook for the PRP Panthers.

Pleasure Ridge Park Bids Farewell to Coach Brandon Dunn After One Season

In a surprising turn of events for the Pleasure Ridge Park High School (PRP) community in Louisville, Kentucky, head football coach Brandon Dunn has been shown the door after just one season at the helm. With the PRP Panthers wrapping up a challenging year, finishing with a disappointing overall record of 2-9 and an even more challenging 0-8 in their class, the decision comes as the school looks to regain its competitive edge in high school football.

Reflecting on a Season of Struggles

Brandon Dunn, a proud graduate of PRP’s class of 2010, took on the formidable task of rejuvenating a football program that had struggled just before his arrival, recording a 5-6 season. Although Dunn’s passion for bringing success back to his alma mater was palpable, the results simply did not manifest on the scoreboard. Following the end of the season, the school’s Athletic Director Nick Waddell sent a letter home to parents shedding light on the decision to not renew Dunn’s contract. The letter reaffirmed the school’s unwavering commitment to offering student-athletes opportunities for growth, both on and off the field.

Next Steps for the PRP Panthers

With Dunn’s departure, the search for a new head football coach kicks off immediately. In the interim, Coach Kenny Walker has been appointed as the acting head coach, ensuring that the football program remains focused and continues to prepare for the upcoming season. The school is keen to hit the ground running by resuming workouts next week in hopes of fine-tuning skills ahead of the much-anticipated spring football practice, which is slated to start on April 28, 2025.

A Glimpse Into Dunn’s Background

For those unfamiliar with Dunn’s background, this wasn’t just a job for him — it was a heartfelt return to his roots. After making a name for himself in high school, he took his talents to the University of Louisville (UofL), where he not only played for four years, but also left a lasting impact as a collegiate athlete. Following his time at UofL, Dunn went on to try his luck in the NFL, where he played as a defensive lineman for four years after going undrafted. His journey of determination and resilience showed his dedication to the sport and the community.

The Future Looks Bright with New Changes

The upcoming football season at PRP comes with exciting news — a brand new turf field and upgraded facilities are set to enhance the athletes’ experience and performance. These upgrades are pivotal as the Panthers gear up for their regular season, which kicks off on August 23, 2024, against Taft High School from Cincinnati, Ohio. The PRP community is buzzing with excitement about the potential improvements and how they will bring a fresh outlook to the team.

Conclusion: Looking Ahead

As the Pleasure Ridge Park High School panthers navigate through this transition, the community remains hopeful for a turnaround. With leadership changes and facility enhancements on the horizon, one can sense an atmosphere of optimism surrounding the football program. The future might just hold great promise, paving the way for a successful resurgence in the seasons to come.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Additional Resources